Emily stared at her laptop screen, eyes wide. “$1.56 per invite?” she whispered, doing the math. Two Forever stamps per envelope. One for the RSVP. Multiply that by 200 guests. Her heart sank.
She clicked on a tempting ad: “Wedding stamps 50% off!” The site looked… sketchy. But the price? Irresistible.
Then she paused. “What if they’re fake?”
That moment of hesitation saved her hundreds—and her wedding’s reputation.
💸 The Real Cost of Wedding Postage in 2026
Let’s get straight to it: USPS Forever stamps cost 78¢ each as of July 2025, and the price will remain unchanged until at least July 2026[^12^]. That’s good news. But it also means couples need to plan ahead.
Here’s a breakdown of typical wedding postage:
| Item | Stamp Type | Cost (2025–2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Outer envelope | Forever stamp | $0.78 |
| RSVP envelope | Forever stamp | $0.78 |
| Heavier/square invites | 2-ounce stamp | $1.07 |
Total per invite: $1.56–$1.85
Multiply that by 150–200 guests, and you’re looking at $234–$370 just for postage.
🚨 Why “Cheap” Can Be Dangerous: The Rise of Counterfeit Stamps
In early 2025, USPS flagged a disturbing trend: fake stamps flooding the market from platforms like Temu and Shein[^1^][^2^][^4^]. These stamps look real but aren’t valid. If you use them, your invitations might be returned with a “POSTAGE DUE” notice—or worse, never delivered.
“I thought I was saving money,” said one bride on Reddit. “Turns out I bought counterfeit stamps. My invites were rejected. I cried for two days.”
Don’t let that be your story.
🛒 Where to Buy Wedding Stamps Safely (and Affordably)
Here’s a curated list of trusted U.S. retailers offering genuine stamps—some even below face value:
| Retailer | Price Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | $27.99–$159.99 | Fast shipping, wide selection | Prices vary by seller |
| Forever Stamp Store | ~$75/roll | Slight discount, verified stamps | Limited designs |
| USPS Official Store | $15.60+/sheet | Guaranteed authenticity | No discounts |
| ⭐️⭐️The USPS stamps | ~$32–$34/roll | Real Forever stamps, lower prices | Must verify seller reputation |
Pro Tip: Buy early. Prices spike during the holidays, and availability drops. Don’t wait until spring 2026—your future self will thank you.
💐 Choosing the Perfect Stamp Design
Your stamp is part of your invitation’s first impression. USPS offers several romantic options:
- Love 2025 Forever Stamp – Timeless and elegant
- Wedding Blooms Two-Ounce Stamp – Ideal for heavier invites
- Celebration Corsage – A floral touch with vintage charm
You can browse the full collection on the USPS Love & Wedding page.
🧠 Why Buying Early Is the Smartest Move
Let’s be real. Most couples don’t think about stamps until the last minute. But here’s why early birds win:
- Better selection: Popular designs sell out fast.
- Lower prices: Some retailers offer discounts in off-peak months.
- Peace of mind: No last-minute panic or shipping delays.
“I bought my stamps in October,” Emily said. “By February, the same design was sold out. I dodged a bullet.”
🧭 How to Spot a Scam (And Avoid It)
If a site offers stamps at 50% off or more, be skeptical. Here’s what to check:
- Does the site list USPS as a source?
- Are there clear photos of the stamps?
- Is the seller based in the U.S.?
- Do they offer tracking and customer support?
If the answer is “no” to any of these, walk away.
🎁 2026 Wedding Planning: What’s Ahead
With USPS confirming no price changes until July 2026[^12^], now’s the perfect time to stock up. The holidays are approaching, and demand will surge. Buying early means avoiding delays, stress, and inflated prices.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Stamp Ruin Your Wedding
Your wedding is a celebration of love, not a lesson in regret. Don’t gamble on shady deals. Buy early, buy smart, and send your invitations with confidence.